St. Johnsbury’s Athenaeum and Public Library! in Vermont

August 11, 2018

Sponsor: St. Johnsbury's Athenaeum and Public Library

Venue: St. Johnsbury's Athenaeum and Public Library

Show: The Spirit of John Muir visits Albert Bierstadt

Type: Customized

Perhaps the most delightful venue John Muir/Lee Stetson has had the pleasure of performing in was the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum and Public Library in Vermont – some 20 years ago. A stage was erected in front Bierstadt’s “The Domes of Yosemite” – a stunning painting depicting the major features of Yosemite Valley – and which has hung there impressing visitors for 150 years. Recently sent away for a bit of restoration, the painting will return this summer, and it’s re-installation is an occasion that has encouraged the ‘spirit’ of Muir to roam about in his Valley once again.

The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum and its extraordinary collection of 19th century art is certainly one of Vermont’s—and the nation’s— most exquisite cultural gems. To experience Albert Bierstadt’s The Domes of the Yosemite in that remarkable interior, surrounded by other jewels in their collection, is one of the great cultural experiences that I hope all visitors to and from Vermont enjoy.” — David Schutz, Vermont State Curator